MOUNT VERNON, Ga. - The Barons Men's Soccer wrapped up their 2024 campaign with a home makeup game on Monday afternoon vs the Life University Running Eagles. The Running Eagles gave the Barons everything they had, but they were unable to stop Life, giving up four goals in the first half and four in the second for an eight-nil loss.

Coach Bob Neuman shared his thoughts on their tough loss: "After two performances trending in the right direction, it's a bittersweet way to end the season.

With a young group of players it was testing, and the guys have had to learn some hard lessons. As we head into the off-season, it's time for us to reflect and reload in preparation for the next campaign. 

We all know we fell short of expectations and are looking to put that right in the seasons to come.

I appreciate all the support from friends, family, and classmates. We look forward to making you proud,"

First Half

The Barons struggled with communication early, which resulted in an early goal for the Running Eagles in the 2nd minute of the match to take the lead. The Barons managed to settle in for some time and held Life off for 25 minutes before the Running Eagles scored again and took all the momentum. Life scored in the 28th and 30th minutes to reach their four goals in the first half. Brewton-Parker was awarded two yellow cards in the first half, which only gave the Running Eagles more momentum. 

Second Half

In the second half, the Barons held Life off the board for nearly 30 minutes before the wheels fell off. Life scored four goals in 15 minutes, including two penalty kicks for Thoma Rodella. The first coming after Andrea Abwe received a red card in the 73rd minute and again in the 79th minute when a foul in the box resulted in another penalty kick. Chima Chukwu scored an amazing bicycle kick goal in the 86th minute, and Life tallied another goal with just under two minutes left in the match to complete their eight-nil victory. 

Stats

• The Barons trailed in shots 36-7.

• The Barons trailed in corner kicks six to three. 

• The Running Eagles led in fouls 12-5.

• The Barons led in saves 12-2. 

• Both teams had two yellow cards, and the Barons had one red card. 

Next Up

That will conclude the 2024 Barons Soccer Season. 

-30-